A city rich in culture, heritage, and best known for its ode to love, Agra is a city you will not get bored of. It has something to offer to the romantics, to the religious, the historians, and many others who come to this city for exploration.
While it is famously known for the Taj Mahal, and the ode Shah Jehan gave to his wife Mumtaz Mahal there is much more that this city has to offer. If you look beyond that you will notice the rugged and historic beauty Agra has to offer. Let’s explore things to do in India!
It will take you back in time when everything was simple before life became so commercialised. It is an echo to the past. A past full of riches and grand gestures, something we don't see much of today. If you are in Agra in 2020, here are some things you can do to make your trip worthwhile and different than the rest.
Visit the Taj Mahal
Of course, this goes without saying as this is what the city is famous for. It is a tribute to love that you don't see anymore and the architecture is one of a kind. If you want to soak in the beauty of this monument, then it is advised to go early morning when the sun is rising.
The beautiful picturesque sky against this beautiful monument will be a breathtaking sight that you will always remember. Plus at this time the site is so peaceful that you will not face any sort of rush!
Soak in nature inside the Mehtab Bagh
Most of the things built in this city are from the Mughal period. This Bagh which means garden was also built by the famous Emperor Babar. If you ever want to get away from the busy city and spend a day doing nothing but enjoying nature then this is the best place to do that.
The majestic garden is filled with pools, fountains, colourful flowers on every corner, and trees everywhere. Once you enter you will also notice the Taj Mahal at a distance. Spend a few hours taking some amazing shots and soaking in nature.
Visit the local markets
While doing touristy things in India is great, you should also do something that is a part of the lifestyle of the locals. Many small towns in India are filled with bazaars and local markets that are the heart of the city. In those areas, you will truly find the real essence of the city.
Go towards Sadar Bazaar and take a look at the leather goods or visit their chaat gali, or look at some alluring embroidery of zardozi at Kinari Bazaar, or enter any local market and enjoy the spicy desi food whose aroma you can detect from a mile away.
Make this visit even more local to get the feel of how Indians live every day take a rickshaw and enjoy the bumpy yet beautiful ride!
Agra Fort
When in Agra, you can't miss this beauty either. This fort took eight years to build and is one of the most important forts in the city. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. Walk inside this fort and explore the ancient beauty all around you in the form of this glorious architecture.
Many of the first earlier monuments inside have been destroyed. However, there are still many palaces and buildings that you can visit and see. Once you are done with all the exploring and you want to learn about the history of this place then you can stay for the light and sound show that takes place every day after sunset.
It will keep you entertained and also help you to understand the monument in a much better way.
Explore the culture by watching a Kalakriti Dance Drama Show
If you are a fan of the arts and love watching musicals and dramas then this will be your best option which will also give you insight into the heritage of India’s culture.
The Kalakriti Cultural and Conventional Centre in Agra offers an hour and a half of musical drama, every day. It is a cultural show that will give you a deeper insight into Indian culture. While you are there you can even take some souvenirs by shopping at the stalls of handicrafts that are set up.
Take a sunset boat cruise on the Yamuna River
Imagine being on a small boat on a river during the time of sunset with the sky painted orange and pink, and nothing around you except the distant silhouettes of Agra’s finest tombs.
This is one of the most mesmerizing things you can do which will give you a sense of tranquillity and peace. The boat ride lasts thirty minutes. However, it will be the best thirty minutes of your life.
Final words
Discover Agra in 2020 in the best way possible. All these will make your trip worthwhile and you will go back with many memories and knowledge of a rich culture embedded in this city. Discover Agra in 2020 the right way with these picks!